Khmer Tree Podcast
Podcast sharing stories from the Cambodian diaspora around the world. Each episode explores personal experiences, cultural traditions, and reflections on identity, heritage, and community. It aims to create a space for connection, pride, and empowerment among Khmer communities, honoring the past while celebrating the present and inspiring the future.
Episodes
Sophon Khoeun - VP National Cambodian Heritage Museum , Chicago, IL
In this inspiring episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad welcomes Sophon Khoeun, who shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. Born during the dark years of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, Sophon and his family endured profound challenges before finding refuge in the United States. His story captures both the struggles and triumphs of adapting to life in a new c
Audrey Chea - Community Advocate & Financial Literacy
In this powerful episode, Chad sits down with Audrey Chea, a former refugee from Cambodia whose life story embodies resilience, determination, and service to others. Audrey recounts her harrowing experiences of surviving the Khmer Rouge regime and the difficult transition to life in the United States as an immigrant. She reflects on how these early challenges shaped her identity, giving her both t
Chinary Ung - Music Composer
https://www.chinaryung.com/index.htmlIn this episode, host Chad has the honor of interviewing Chinary Ung, the legendary Cambodian composer whose extraordinary journey bridges two worlds: the traditional sounds of Cambodia and the evolving landscape of contemporary music in the United States. From his childhood in Cambodia to his rise as a prominent figure in the international music scene, Chinary
Nek Kru Charya-Burt - Cambodian Classical Dance Choreographer
In this episode, host Chad sits down with Neak Kru Charya, a master teacher and choreographer of Cambodian classical dance, at the Cambodian Heritage Museum in Chicago. Neak Kru shares her inspiring journey from Cambodia to the United States, reflecting on how her life experiences shaped her devotion to keeping Khmer traditions alive and accessible to new generations.The conversation explores her
Kevin Keo - Aspiring Ceramist
In this conversation, host Chad speaks with Kevin Keo, a Khmer American artist and scholar whose work explores the intersections of culture, identity, and creativity. Growing up in Long Beach, California, home to one of the largest Cambodian American communities in the country, Kevin reflects on how his upbringing shaped his sense of belonging and inspired his path as both an artist and cultural a
Fedrick Ngo - Professor at UNLV (Las Vegas)
In this episode, host Chad interviews Fedrick Ngo, a Cambodian American professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), who shares his family’s journey of resilience, migration, and cultural rediscovery. Fedrick reflects on his family’s move from Cambodia to the United States, and how growing up in Syracuse, New York, and later Long Beach, California, shaped his identity and connection to
Punisa Pov - Artist in Resident Chicago, IL
In this episode, host Chad welcomes Punisa Pov, a Cambodian traditional musician whose journey reflects resilience, cultural pride, and the healing power of music. Punisa takes listeners back to her early life in Phnom Penh, where her love for traditional Khmer music first took root amid the everyday challenges her family faced. She speaks openly about the struggles of growing up, including her mo
Neak Kru Sopaline Chem Shapiro & Husband John Shapiro
In this episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad engages in a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation with Neak Kru Sophiline Cheam Shapiro, a renowned Cambodian classical dancer, choreographer, and teacher, along with her husband, Pu John Shapiro, an artist and cultural advocate. Together, they share their life journeys, beginning with their formative years in Cambodia and the harrowing impact of li
Vanndearlyn Burmudez Vong - Aspiring Ceramics Artist
In this episode, Chad engages in a thoughtful conversation with a Cambodian artist whose passion for pottery and ceramics serves as both a personal journey and a cultural statement. The artist shares how their path into the world of ceramics was not only about discovering a creative outlet but also about reconnecting with Khmer traditions and finding ways to preserve heritage through art.Throughou
Brandy Meyers - Growing Up Half Black In Cambodian Neighborhoods
In this episode, host Chad sits down with Brandy Myers, who shares her inspiring journey from Columbus, Ohio, to Long Beach, California, and the unique perspective she brings as a mixed-race individual within the Khmer community. Brandy reflects on the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities, the importance of finding belonging, and the ways community support has shaped her sense o
Samantha (Sam) Chanwantha Limon - Chief of HR LA County, Los Angeles, CA, Board member of Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
In this episode, Chad interviews Samantha (Sam) Chanwantha Limon, a prominent Cambodian American leader whose inspiring journey reflects resilience, service, and dedication to community. Born in Cambodia during a time of great turmoil, Sam and her family were forced to flee the Khmer Rouge regime, ultimately finding refuge and building a new life in the United States. She shares the struggles of a
Ova Sao Pang - Co Founder of Teada Productions
In this episode, host Chad sits down with Ova Sao Pang, a Lao refugee who grew up in Hawaii, to explore his remarkable life journey and the lessons he has drawn from it. Ova shares the story of his family’s migration from Laos to the United States, describing the challenges of displacement and the resilience required to build a new life in a completely different cultural landscape. Growing up in H
Sophath Chou Colwell - Immigration Lawyer, Seattle, WA & Co-Founder of The National Association of Cambodian American Lawyers (NACAL)
Sophath Chou Colwell - Immigration Lawyer, Seattle, WA & Co-Founder of The National Association of Cambodian American Lawyers (NACAL)
Princess O'lary Yim
In this lively and heartfelt episode, Chad reconnects with O’lary Yim, and together they share the humorous and memorable story of their reunion. Their conversation flows between personal history and broader cultural narratives, giving listeners an intimate yet wide-ranging perspective on Cambodian heritage. O’lary speaks about her royal family connections in Cambodia and reflects on how the Khmer
Saron Khut - Owner of Mekong Bistro, Portland, OR
Saron Khut - Owner of Mekong Bistro, Portland, OR
Kim Tan - Entrepreneur and Business Leader, Phnom Panh, Cambodia
In this episode, Chad interviews Kim Tan, who shares her inspiring journey of returning to Cambodia after years of living in the United States. Kim reflects on the challenges and opportunities of building a business dedicated to talent and skills development in her home country. She highlights the importance of equipping young people and women with the tools they need to succeed, not just through
Botum LeBun - Journalist for UNICEF
In this episode, Chad sits down with Botum LeBon, who shares the extraordinary story of her life’s journey from Cambodia to the global stage. Born in Cambodia during a time of turmoil, Botum recounts her early experiences as a refugee and the challenges her family endured while seeking safety and opportunity. She reflects on how these formative struggles shaped her resilience and determination, ul
Robert Chow - Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast
In this compelling and inspiring episode, host Chad interviews Robert Chow, whose life story embodies resilience, courage, and the transformative power of hope. Robert takes listeners through his extraordinary journey, beginning with a privileged upbringing in Cambodia before the Khmer Rouge regime plunged his world into chaos. He recounts the harrowing experiences of surviving genocide, fleeing t
Ravin Pan - Math Professor
In this insightful and inspiring episode, host Chad sits down with Ravin Pan, a Cambodian-American educator, professor, and advocate for educational reform, to explore the profound connection between personal history, cultural identity, and the transformative power of learning. Ravin shares his family’s remarkable story, beginning with their life in Cambodia, the devastation they endured during th
Yari Livan - Master Ceramist
In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad sits down with Yari Livan, a Cambodian-born artist, master potter, and ceramics professor based in Lowell, Massachusetts—home to one of the largest Cambodian communities in the United States. Yari shares his extraordinary journey, beginning with his childhood in Cambodia, the harrowing years he lived through under the Khmer Rou
Kaitlyn Mady - A Harvard Student
Kaitlyn Mady, Cambodian community leadership, education advocacy, Harvard University experience, youth empowerment initiatives, storytelling for cultural preservation, public speaking engagement, promotion of Khmer culture and traditions, community involvement and volunteerism, mentorship for young leaders, cross-generational dialogue, representation of Cambodian voices, future aspirations for the
Chhaya Tan - Entrepreneur, story teller, community advocate
In this heartfelt and engaging episode, host Chad sits down with Chhaya Tan, a Cambodian-American entrepreneur, storyteller, and community advocate, to explore his powerful journey from Cambodia to the United States—and the cultural legacy he’s building along the way. Chhaya shares vivid memories of his early life, from surviving the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge to growing up in the heart of Long
Kaylean Ung Breen - Actress, musician, artist, educator
In this deeply moving and thought-provoking episode, host Chad sits down with Kalean Ung Breen, a gifted Cambodian-American artist, performer, and educator based in Los Angeles. Known for her emotionally resonant work that blends storytelling, memory, and performance, Kalean shares the powerful journey that has shaped her as an artist—one rooted in her family’s history, the enduring legacy of the
Mea Lath - Founder of Modern Apsara Company
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Chad sits down with Mea Lath, a Cambodian-American dancer, instructor, and entrepreneur, to explore her remarkable journey of resilience, cultural pride, and personal growth. Born into a refugee family and raised in Long Beach, California, Mea reflects on the challenges of growing up between two worlds—navigating the expectations of her Cambodian heritage wh
Sovanna Pouv - From East Coast to West Coast, There Will Always Be Community Love
Sovanna Pouv - From East Coast to West Coast, There Will Always Be Community Love
Neardey Trinh - Founder of Little Lana's Cookies & Supermom
In this episode, host Chad speaks with Neardey Trinh, a Cambodian immigrant and entrepreneur based in Virginia. Neardey shares her journey from Cambodia to America, her experiences growing up in a war-torn country, and the challenges of balancing family life with her successful cookie business, Little Lana's Cookies. The conversation delves into her passion for baking, the unique flavors she c
Rob Carlton - Visual Anthropologist & Filmmaker
In this episode, Chad interviews Rob Carlton, a visual anthropologist and documentary filmmaker, who shares his journey into Cambodian culture and the importance of storytelling through film. They discuss Rob's experiences living in Cambodia, his family life, and his current projects that focus on community involvement and the preservation of Cambodian history. The conversation also touches on
Li-Da Kruger - Founder of Reconnecting Cambodia, DNA Project
In this powerful and deeply moving episode, host Chad sits down with Li-Da Kruger, a Cambodian adoptee who was raised in England after being separated from her birth family during the upheaval of the Cambodian Civil War and genocide. Li-Da shares her compelling journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of cultural identity, belonging, and the lasting impact of historical trauma on the Cambodian
Laura Ouk - Educator & President of The National Cambodian Heritage Museum
In this compelling episode, host Chad sits down with Laura Ouk, a dynamic educator, community advocate, and proud daughter of Cambodian refugees. Laura shares her powerful journey as a first-generation Cambodian American navigating the intersection of identity, heritage, and social impact in the heart of Chicago. With honesty and passion, she recounts her path from growing up in a bicultural house
Paul Sum - Memoirs of a Childhood Friend
In this episode, host Chad reconnects with his long-time friend Paul Sum, who shares his remarkable journey from Cambodia to California. Paul recounts his early life during the Khmer Rouge, the struggles of his family in refugee camps, and their eventual resettlement in Long Beach. The conversation explores the importance of community, cultural heritage, and the role of the church in shaping their
Lyna Thoeun - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Life & Family
Lyna Thoeun - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Life & Family
Pastor Randy Odom - A Couple's Journey to Cambodia
In this heartfelt episode, Chad sits down with Randy Odom to discuss his incredible journey of faith, sacrifice, and love that led him from the United States to the heart of Cambodia. What began as a casual lunch conversation would ultimately change the course of Randy’s life forever. Inspired by a deep sense of purpose, he and his wife made the courageous decision to sell their belongings and mov
Rithy Hanh - The Unofficial Mayor of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CA
Rithy Hanh - The Unofficial Mayor of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CA
Randy Muth - Executive Director of Angkor Resource Center
https://arc707.org/404-594-8770
Chhaya Chhoum - Executive Director of Southeast Asian Freedom Network (SEAFN)
Chhaya Chhoum - Executive Director of Southeast Asian Freedom Network (SEAFN)
Vanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices Podcast
Vanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices Podcast
Dorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America Podcast
Dorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America Podcast
Kaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CA
Kaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CA2434 E Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA, United States, California 90804
Kun Chap - Retired Navy Commander
Kun Chap - Retired Navy Commander
Kim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce
Kim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce
Boden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All
Boden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All
Don King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community
Don King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community
Kreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All
Kreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All
Sokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family
Sokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family
Dr. Christina Lee - Owner & Physician of Majestic Medical Clinic, Long Beach, CA
In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Christina Lee shares her extraordinary life story—a journey marked by profound hardship, unwavering faith, and an enduring commitment to service. Born in Cambodia, Dr. Lee lived through one of the darkest periods in the country’s history: the Khmer Rouge regime. She recounts harrowing memories of being separated from family, surviving forced labor camps, and witn
Sophy Khut - Owner of Sophy's Restaurant, Long Beach, CA
In this episode of The Khmer Tree Podcast, host Chad sits down with Sophy Khut, a beloved Cambodian restaurant owner in Long Beach, California. Sophy recounts her remarkable journey—from growing up in Cambodia and surviving the civil war, to escaping to Thailand and eventually rebuilding her life in the United States. She shares the hardships she faced as a refugee, the perseverance it took to sta
Sophaline Mao, MA, MBA - Khmer-American Real Estate Entrepreneur in California
In this episode, we chat with Sophaline Mao, a Cambodian American whose journey from refugee to tech and real estate professional is a testament to resilience and self-discovery. Sophaline reflects on her family’s escape from the Khmer Rouge, growing up in Stockton, and navigating cultural identity while pursuing education and career success. She shares pivotal moments, from changing her academic
Tony Te Chan - Cambodian Community Organizer, Events Coordinator & Real Estate Professional, Long Beach, CA
In this episode we chat with Tony Te Chan, a respected entrepreneur and community leader in Long Beach, California. Tony shares his journey as a Cambodian refugee, his experiences growing up in Long Beach—a hub for Cambodian immigrants—and his passion for real estate and community engagement. The conversation explores the importance of cultural preservation, bridging generational gaps, and the sig
Dr. Kara Uy Has - Cambodian Refugee from Battambang to Doctor in America
In this powerful episode, Kara Has shares her inspiring journey from refugee to clinical psychologist and community advocate. She reflects on her childhood experiences, the challenges of growing up in a large family, and the values of hard work and resilience. Kara discusses the role of storytelling in healing and preserving cultural heritage, while also addressing mental health challenges within
Mao Beckett - EMDR-Certified Somatic Therapist / Clinical Social Work, LCSW, LICSW
In this episode of Khmer Tree Podcast, Chad sits down with Mao Beckett, an EMDR-certified somatic therapist from Milwaukee, to explore the impact of intergenerational trauma on the Khmer diaspora. As a first-generation American, Mao shares her personal experiences growing up in the Khmer community and how they shaped her understanding of mental health.They discuss the importance of acknowledging t
Thourn Heng - Cambodian Refugee from Battambang to High School Math Teacher in America
In this episode of Khmer Tree Podcast, Chad sits down with Thourn Heng to discuss his incredible journey from a Cambodian refugee to a dedicated educator and filmmaker in the U.S. Thourn reflects on his childhood memories, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the role education played in shaping his future.They explore the power of storytelling, the importance of cultural identity, and
Khemarey Khoeun (Khem) - First Khmer American Woman Elected into Public Office
In 2017, Khem made history as the first Cambodian American woman elected in America as trustee for the village of Skokie, IL, a suburb north of Chicago. Khem shares her incredible journey from being a refugee child to becoming a leader in local government. She reflects on the challenges of growing up in a diverse community, overcoming barriers in education, and the importance of representation in
Dr. Teri Kap Tan - Patient Advocate, Founder of S.H.E, Co-Founder of CHPAA
In this episode we sit with Dr. Teri Kap Tan, a Greek Australian whose dedication to education, healthcare, and community engagement has made a profound impact on the Cambodian community in Long Beach. Dr. Tan shares her immigrant journey, the challenges she faced, and how they shaped her passion for helping others.Born in Greece and raised in Australia, Dr. Tan experienced language barriers but e
Charles Song - Cambodian Community Organizer, Leader, Pioneer, Advocate, Long Beach, CA
We explore the remarkable journey of Charles Song, who fled Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime and rebuilt his life in America. From escaping war and surviving refugee camps to embracing a new culture and preserving his heritage, Charles’s story is a testament to resilience, love, and healing. He shares his struggles, the importance of community, and the emotional journey of reconnecting with
Monica Salinas - First Khmer American crowned as Miss Long Beach, CA
In this episode we chat with Monica Salinas, the former Miss Long Beach and dedicated community leader, to discuss her inspiring journey. She was the first Cambodian American to be crowned this title in 2013. Monica shares her family's history, the challenges they overcame, and how faith and education played a crucial role in shaping her path.She reflects on her experience as Miss Long Beach and h
Sotheara Lim - Founder of Khmer Renaissance on Instagram
"Keep Walking Koun Khmer" is the mantra of Khmer Renaissance, one of the fastest growing social media accounts on Instagram. In this episode, we chat with Sotheara Lim, the man behind the account. We discuss the importance of cultural identity, community, and the journey of the Khmer people. Sotheara opens up about the generational trauma experienced by the Khmer diaspora and how Khmer R
Dr. Susan Needham - Prof of Anthropology & Co-author of "Cambodians in Long Beach, CA"
In this episode we chat with Dr. Susan Needham at the Historical Society of Long Beach to explore the Cambodian American experience and the rich history of the Cambodian community in Long Beach. As a linguistic anthropologist, Dr. Needham has worked closely with the community since 1988, documenting their struggles, achievements, and cultural evolution.They discuss the archives available at the hi
Dr. Christine Su - Prof of South East Asian Studies & Author of "Voices of a New Generation"
In this episode we chat with Dr. Christine Su about her powerful journey of self-discovery and cultural reconnection as a Cambodian American. Growing up in New Jersey, Christine’s Cambodian heritage was largely suppressed, but through education and transformative experiences—including her time in Hawaii and her return to Cambodia—she found a deeper connection to her roots.Christine shares how her
Greg Cahill - Writer & Filmmaker of The Golden Voice: Story of Ros Serey Sothea
Meet Greg Cahill, creator of the graphic novel The Golden Voice, which tells the story of iconic Cambodian singer Ros Serey Sothea. Greg shares his journey from film school to storytelling through graphic novels, highlighting the deep cultural significance of Cambodian music and Ros Serey Sothea’s enduring legacy.The conversation explores Greg’s research process, his collaboration with the Cambodi
Dan Peou - First Khmer-American High School Principal based in Philadelphia, PA
In this episode we chat with Dan Peou, a Cambodian refugee who overcame immense challenges to become the first Khmer-American principal in Philadelphia and in America. Dan shares his journey of adapting to a new culture, the transformative power of education, and the vital role mentorship played in his success.He reflects on his experiences within the school system, the impact of community support
Caylee So - Filmmaker & Co-Founder of Cambodia Town Film Festival
Meet Caylee So, co-founder of the Cambodia Town Film Festival. Caylee shares her incredible journey from being born in a Thai refugee camp to serving in the Virginia Army National Guard and discovering her passion for filmmaking while deployed in Iraq.She discusses the inspiration behind the Cambodia Town Film Festival and the growth of Cambodian cinema since its founding in 2013. Caylee also offe
Cameron Sam - Owner & CEO of Rep Cambodia Apparel
Rep Cambodia is a global clothing brand based in Long Beach, CA, dedicated to celebrating Cambodian culture and identityIn this episode we chat with Cameron where he shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a global brand, reflecting on the challenges faced by the Cambodian community in Long Beach, including gang violence and cultural clashes.He discusses the evolution of his brand—sy
Dr. Suely Saro - The First Cambodian American Councilmember in Long Beach, CA
In this episode we chat with Dr. Suely Saro, the first Cambodian American Councilmember in Long Beach, CA. Suely shares her inspiring journey from being born in a refugee camp to breaking barriers in public service. She reflects on the challenges of running for office against a well-known incumbent during the pandemic and the resilience it took to succeed.Suely discusses the importance of self-adv
Richer San - Co-Founder of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CA
In this episode we sit with Richer San and talk about the significance of Cambodian Town in Long Beach, California, and the journey that led to its establishment. Richer shares his personal story of survival during the Khmer Rouge era, his immigration to America, and the challenges faced by the Cambodian community in rebuilding their lives.The conversation highlights the growth of Cambodia Town, t
Chad Phuong - "The Cambodian Cowboy" Owner & Operator of Battambong BBQ in Long Beach, CA
In this episode we chat with Chad Phuong, also known as the "Cambodian Cowboy", to discuss his remarkable journey from surviving the Khmer Rouge era to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the culinary world. Chad shares his experiences growing up in a refugee camp, resettling in Long Beach, and witnessing the growth of the Cambodian-American community.Through his passion for food, Chad
Davy Chou - French Cambodian Filmmaker from Phnom Penh, Cambodia
In this episode we sit with French Cambodian filmmaker Davy Chu to discuss his journey from France to Cambodia and his impact on the film industry. Davy shares insights into his family's history, the Cambodian community in France, and his experiences bringing Khmer stories to life through films like Golden Slumbers, Diamond Island, and Return to Seoul.The conversation explores the evolving lan
Joe Ngo - Cambodian American Actor, Writer and Musician, best known for his role in Cambodian Rock Band
In this episode we chat with Joe Ngo, a talented Cambodian American actor, writer and musician best known for his role in Cambodian Rock Band. Joe shares his family's journey as refugees escaping the war in Cambodia in the late 1970's, his upbringing in Southern California, and how he discovered his passion for the arts.Through his work, Joe sheds light on the Khmer community’s history and
Mona Sang - Owner and Chef of Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining in Chicago, IL
Chef Mona, owner of Khmai Cuisine Restaurant, shares her inspiring journey of cultural identity, resilience, and the power of food as a storytelling medium. Growing up as a Cambodian immigrant in America, she navigated the challenges of embracing her heritage while pursuing her passion for cooking. In this episode, she opens up about the struggles of running a Cambodian restaurant, the significanc
Van Tan - Co-Owner of Phnom Penh Noodles in Long Beach, CA
Van Tan, co-owner of Penh Noodle Shack, joins us to share the incredible journey of his family’s restaurant, a beloved staple in the Cambodian community for decades. He reflects on his family’s immigration from Cambodia to America, the struggles they faced as refugees, and how their restaurant became more than just a place to eat—it became a sanctuary for the community.Van discusses the evolution
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